What Is The Epley Maneuver?
If you have vertigo of a particular kind (BPPV), the Epley maneuver, or canalith repositioning maneuver as it is sometimes called, can help free the floating particles that are affected in the semicircular canal. They can be relocated somewhere else, relieving patients of their vertigo. The maneuver is often performed by a therapist, doctor, or Physician Assistant in order to ensure it is done correctly. The maneuver was developed in 1980 and has been modified and improved since then for even more successful results.
Epley Maneuver Background
The overall goal of this procedure is to restore equilibrium to the vestibular system, or the semicircular canal. The Epley Maneuver treats symptoms that go along with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). When free floating Otoconia crystals get displaced from the otolithic membrane, it can cause disequilibrium. The displacement of these crystals, along with slight head movements will send signals to the brain that start to cause the sensation of vertigo.
Do You Need It?
If you are considering the Epley maneuver, you probably are plagued by vertigo and are ready for relief. The maneuver, you will be happy to hear, is quick and virtually painless. If you have BPPV, it is certainly something to seriously consider. It doesn’t take all that long, with just 10 different sequences and positions, and it can be repeated multiple times. You might be dizzy during the process, but the dizziness will subside.
Post-Treatment Advice
Once you have the treatment, you might want to wear a soft collar to avoid tilting your head too far in either direction that could displace the otoconia again. You will also want to be careful about bending over, lying on your back, moving your head up and down or tilting it to either side. You will want to sleep semi-recumbent for two nights with your head flat and upright, perhaps in an easy chair reclined back. You can take the soft collar off on occasion if you are careful about how you move. You will also want to move your head in horizontal manners to prevent stiff neck muscles from occurring later. The maneuver will be more successful if the post treatment advice is adhered to so everything settles into place elsewhere and doesn’t lodge in the wrong region again.
Get The Right Help
If you need to know what the best treatment options are for you, it is a good idea to seek professional help, like that available at the Breathe Clear Institute. If you have vertigo and you want to give the Epley maneuver a try, talk to your doctor. If you don’t know what type of vertigo you have, it is best to get a diagnosis before you make your mind up about any treatment. Feel free to reach out to us so we can get started finding you the right type of relief. It’s important for the quality of your life to find a solution to your vertigo. We look forward to getting started.